Today Is Like A Box Of Chocolates!

How time flies when you’re having a blast! I can’t believe there’s only 2 weeks left until opening night on July 28th!

This means 1 major event is about to occur… a day during the rehearsal process actors simultaneously love & dread… the infamous “Off-Book Day” (insert dramatic sound effect DUN DUN DUUUUN)!!

Starting on this day, actors are no longer allowed to rehearsal with their security blanket… better known as their scripts. This is the one day during the 5 week rehearsal process that’s completely like a box of chocolates. In the words of Forrest Gump

“You never know what you’re gonna get.”

In my words…

“You never know you’re off-book, until you’re off-book.”

In the past my typical off-book day experience has gone something like this… I know my lines backwards & forwards… I recite them while taking a shower… while doing dishes… even while cleaning the bathroom! By the time off-book day arrives I’m totally prepared.

Feeling confident, I put down my script as I walk on stage for my first scene. I look my scene partner in the eye as he/she gives me my cue. Then it happens… my mind goes completely blank! I have NO idea what I’m supposed to say next! Feebly I call “line”… our stage manager helps me out by giving me my line… the scene goes on. This continues throughout rehearsal as other cast members do the same. Eventually we all get through the rehearsal… everyone is little bit humbled.

On a positive note, this is the day the “magic” really starts to happen. There’s a theory among actors & directors that says characters really don’t start to emerge until an actor puts his script down. It’s a theory I endorse 110%.

As in life… Sometimes we take 1 step back before taking 2 steps forward.

Has this ever happened to you? Have you ever taken a step backwards in life, before taking 2 steps forward?